Absorbent article

ABSTRACT

The absorbent article provides a signal viewable from the top surface of the absorbent article which gives a perception of depth within the absorbent article. This creation of depth perception is accomplished by the use of at least two tones within a color and/or by the use of multiple tones and multiple colors operating together to create a perception of depth within the absorbent article. At least one tone contains a graphic.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.10/945,403, filed Sep. 20, 2004, pending, which was a continuation ofU.S. application Ser. No. 10/796,883, filed Mar. 9, 2004, pending, whichwas a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/025,059, filed Dec.19, 2001, pending.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides an absorbent article having a multi-tone signalof at least one color having a graphic. The effect of the multi-tonesignal creates a perception of depth by a user viewing the topsheetsurface of the absorbent article.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Printing on or below the top surface of an absorbent article is known inthe art. Printing to create a signal that masks stains is also known.Overcoming the problem of unsightly stains during, for example, awoman's menstrual period has been disclosed. What has not been disclosedor taught is the use of multi-toned printing to create a signal thatprovides a perception of depth to an absorbent article when the articleis viewed from its top or viewing surface. By creating a perception ofdepth within the absorbent article a user is reassured prior to use andduring use that fluid will be drawn deep inside the product and awayfrom a user's body.

Through the use of innovative topsheet materials, secondary topsheetmaterials, absorbent gelling materials and breathable backsheets, thetechnology in absorbent articles, and particularly sanitary napkins, hasdrastically advanced to provide women with more than adequate, if notexcellent, products that absorb menses and other fluids away from awoman's body. However, much of this technology is often hidden andtherefore not viewable. When seen, absorbent components often do notreadily or visually communicate to a user the existence of this enhancedtechnology.

The ability to communicate to a consumer the existence of enhancedfunctioning of an absorbent article is a premium asset to any absorbentarticle. Hence, the use of the multi-toned signals has been created tobegin to address the problem of such communication. This is especiallyso since mostly all of the products on the market today have as theirmain function the objective to mask menses rather than conveying theproduct's enhanced functioning power. The art is replete with examplesof the use of a one-tone signal for such masking.

Communicating enhanced functioning characteristics by creating theperception of depth within an absorbent article is one unique and novelway to solve this problem, that prior to this reduction to practice hasnot been taught, suggested or disclosed by the prior art. Using multipletones (i.e., at least two) of a color and/or multiple tones and multiplecolors together to create a perception of depth can engender in a userthe perceived belief of better protection and enhanced functioning bycreating the perception of depth once a user has viewed the multi-toneconfiguration from the viewing surface of the absorbent article, suchperception continuing through and after wear of the absorbent article.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the invention provides an absorbent article having an uppersurface, a lower surface and a periphery comprising a topsheet having abottom surface and a viewing surface positioned opposite to the bottomsurface. The viewing surface faces upwardly towards the upper surface ofthe absorbent article. The absorbent article further comprises abacksheet having a garment facing surface and a user facing surfacepositioned oppositely to the garment facing surface, the backsheet beingjoined to the topsheet.

An absorbent core having a top surface and a bottom surface that ispositioned opposite to the top surface. The absorbent core is positionedbetween the topsheet and the backsheet. The viewing surface of theabsorbent article preferably, but not necessarily, has at least twoportions, i.e., a colored portion and a non-colored portion. The coloredportion and the non-colored portion are viewable from the viewingsurface of the topsheet. The colored portion has at least two shades, afirst shade and a second shade. The first shade is positionedsubstantially within the second shade. The second shade is different,either in lightness, darkness, and/or color, from the first shade. Themulti-shades operate to create a perception of depth within theabsorbent article by a user looking upon the viewing surface of thetopsheet. In one embodiment herein, the first shade of the color isdarker than the second shade of the color. Alternatively, the firstshade is lighter than the second shade.

In one embodiment, the first shade comprises a first graphic. In yetanother embodiment, the second shade comprises a second graphic.Moreover, in yet another embodiment the first shade comprises a firstgraphic and the second shade comprises a second graphic.

The color of the first shade and the second shade of the colored portionand the non-colored portion are measured by reflectancespectrophotometer ASTM standard test methodology. Tristimulus L*, a*, b*values are measured from the viewing surface of the topsheet inboard ofthe absorbent article's periphery. These L*, a*, b* values are reportedin terms of the CIE 1976 color coordinate standard The color differencesbetween the colored portion and the non-colored portion are measured ata first point, a second point, and a third point on the viewing surfaceof the topsheet inboard of the periphery of the absorbent article.Preferably, each one of the points noted (i.e., 1, 2 and 3) residesfully within the periphery of the absorbent core. For example, the firstpoint is measured within the first shade, the second point is measuredwithin the second shade, and the third point is measured within thenon-colored portion of the absorbent article. The color differences arecalculated according to method ASTM D2244-99 “Standard Test Method forCalculation of Color Differences from Instrumentally Measured ColorCoordinates.”

The difference in color (i.e., ΔE*) between the first shade and thesecond shade should be at least 3.5. The ΔE* is calculated by theformulaΔE*=[(L*_(X·)−L*_(Y))²+(a*_(X·)−a*_(Y))²+(b*_(X)−b*_(Y))²]^(1/2). X mayrepresent points 1, 2 or 3. Y may represent points 1, 2 or 3. X and Yshould never be the same two points of measurement at the same time. Inother words, X≠Y. The difference in color between the first shade andthe non-colored portion is at least 6. The difference in color betweenthe second shade and the non-colored portion is at least 3.5.Preferably, the size of the colored portion ranges from about 5% toabout 100% of the viewing surface of the topsheet. Also preferably, thefirst shade of the colored portion is positioned substantially centrallyin relation to the second shade of the colored portion. However, so longas the shades are in proper spatial relationship to one-another suchthat the depth perception phenomena is created, any suitable positioningof the shades is suitable and foreseeable by one of skill in the art andare therefore acknowledged as suitable alternative embodiments of theinvention.

In one embodiment herein, the colored portion may be an insertpositioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core. In anotherembodiment, the colored portion forms a part of the topsheet. In yetanother embodiment herein, the colored portion forms a part of theabsorbent core whereby the colored portion is viewable from the viewingsurface of the topsheet. Alternatively, the colored portion may be amulti-layered insert positioned beneath the topsheet.

Any topsheet material that allows the colored portion to be readily seenfrom the viewing surface of the topsheet is suitable. For example,formed film material, nonwovens, other topsheet materials known in theart or combinations thereof are suitable.

In an alternative embodiment herein, the absorbent article provides acolored portion and is substantially without a non-colored portion. Thecolored portion is viewable from the viewing surface of the topsheet andhas at least two shades, a first shade and a second shade. The firstshade is positioned substantially within the second shade, the secondshade being different from the first shade. The at least two shadesoperate to create a perception of depth within the absorbent article bya user looking upon the viewing surface of the topsheet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing outand distinctly claiming the subject matter which is regarded as formingthe present invention, it is believed that the invention will be betterunderstood from the following descriptions which are taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like designationsare used to designate substantially identical elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective drawing of the absorbent article;

FIG. 2 is a planar view of the absorbent article of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a planar view of an alternative embodiment of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 4 is a planar view of the proper testing form of the absorbentarticle of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a planar view of the proper testing form of the absorbentarticle of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the color spectrum.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of the Commission Internationale del'Eclairage L*a*b* color space.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Section A will provide terms which will assist the reader in bestunderstanding the features of the invention but not to introducelimitations in the terms inconsistent with the context in which they areused in this specification. These definitions are not intended to belimiting. Section B will discuss the sanitary napkin of the presentinvention. Section C will discuss them methods.

A. TERMS

“Absorbent articles” as referred to herein are primarily sanitarynapkins, pantiliners, or incontinence pads that are worn in the crotchregion of an undergarment. It is even conceivable that baby diapers,adult incontinence diapers, and human waste management devices benefitfrom the present invention even though they are conventionally not wornin conjunction with an undergarment.

The term “color” as referred to herein include any primary color, i.e.,white, black, red, blue, violet, orange, yellow, green, and indigo aswell as any declination thereof or mixture thereof. The term ‘non-color’or ‘non-colored’ refers to the color white which is further defined asthose colors having an L* value of at least 90, an a* value equal to0±2, and a b* value equal to 0±2.

The term “disposable” is used herein to describe absorbent articles thatare not intended to be launched or otherwise restored or reused asabsorbent articles (i.e., they are intended to be discarded after asingle use and, preferably to be recycled, composted or otherwisedisposed of in an environmentally compatible manner).

B. Sanitary Napkin of the Present Invention

Non-limiting examples of panty liners and sanitary napkins which may beprovided with a multi-tone signal that operates to create depthperception include those manufactured by The Procter & Gamble Company ofCincinnati, Ohio as: ALWAYS® Pantiliners with DriWeave® manufacturedaccording to U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,324,246; 4,463,045; and 6,004,893; ALWAYS®Ultrathin Slender Maxi with Wings manufactured according to U.S. Pat.Nos. 4,342,314, 4,463,045, 4,556,146, B1 4,589,876, 4,687,478,4,950,264, 5,009,653, 5,267,992, and Re. 32,649; ALWAYS® Regular Maxi;ALWAYS® Ultra Maxi with Wings; ALWAYS® Maxi with Wings; ALWAYS® UltraLong Maxi with Wings; ALWAYS® Long Super Maxi with Wings; ALWAYS®Overnight Maxi with Wings; ALWAYS® Scented Maxi Long Super withFlexi-Wings; ALWAYS® Scented Maxi Regular; ALWAYS® Scented Maxi Ultrawith Flexi-Wings; and ALWAYS® Scented Maxi Super Ultra with Flexi-Wings,each aforesaid publication being incorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of the absorbent article 10. Theabsorbent article 10 herein has an upper surface 22, a lower surface(not seen), and a periphery 12 comprising a topsheet 25 having a bottomsurface (not shown) and a viewing surface 32 positioned opposite to thebottom surface. The viewing surface 32 faces upwardly towards the uppersurface 22 of the absorbent article 10. The absorbent article 10 furthercomprises a backsheet 23 having a garment facing surface (not shown) anda user facing surface positioned oppositely to the garment facingsurface, the backsheet 23 being joined to the topsheet 25.

The absorbent article 10 also comprises an absorbent core 20 having atop surface 21 and a bottom surface (not shown) that is positionedopposite to the top surface 21. The absorbent core 20 is positionedbetween the topsheet 25 and the backsheet 23. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 the absorbent article 10 has at least two portions, i.e., acolored portion 40 and a non-colored portion 50. The colored portion 40and the non-colored portion 50 are viewable from the viewing surface 32of the topsheet 25. The colored portion 40 has at least two shades, afirst shade 42 and a second shade 44. Preferably, but not necessarily,and as is shown in FIG. 1, the first shade 42 is positionedsubstantially within the second shade 44. The second shade 44 isdifferent, either in lightness, darkness, and/or color, from the firstshade 42. The multi-shades operate to create a perception of depthwithin the absorbent article by a user looking upon the viewing surface32 of the topsheet 25. Specifically, the lightness and darkness of theshades, whether two or greater than two shades, are configured to createa perception of depth by a user looking upon the viewing surface 32 ofthe absorbent article 10. As shown in FIG. 2, in one embodiment herein,the first shade 42 of the color may be darker than the second shade 44of the color. As shown in FIG. 3, alternatively, the first shade 42 maybe lighter than the second shade 44.

Referring to FIG. 4, the color of the first shade 42 and the secondshade 44 of the colored portion 40 and the non-colored portion 50 aremeasured by the reflectance spectrophotometer according to the colors'L*, a*, and b* values. The L*, a*, and b* values are measured from theviewing surface 32 of the topsheet 25 inboard of the absorbent article'speriphery 12. The color differences between the colored portion 40 andthe non-colored portion 50 are measured at a first point 100, a secondpoint 110, and a third point 120 on the viewing surface 32 of thetopsheet 25 inboard of the periphery 12 of the absorbent article 10.Preferably, each one of the points 100, 110, and 120 resides fullywithin the periphery 12 of the absorbent core 20. For example, the firstpoint 100 is measured within the first shade 42, the second point 110 ismeasured within the second shade 44, and the third point 120 is measuredwithin the non-colored portion 50 of the absorbent article 10.

The color differences are calculated using the L*, a*, and b* values bythe formula ΔE=[(L*_(X·)−L*_(Y))²+(a*_(X·)−a*_(Y))²+(b*_(X)−b*_(Y))^(2])^(1/2). Herein, the ‘X’ in the equation may represent points 100, 110,or 120. Y may represent points 100, 110, or 120. X and Y should never bethe same two points of measurement at the same time. In other words, X #Y. Where greater than two shades of a color(s) are used, the ‘X’ and ‘Y’values alternately include points of measurement in them also. The keyto the ΔE calculation herein is that the ‘X’ and ‘Y’ values should notstem from the same measured point on the viewing surface. In thoseinstances where there is effectively no non-colored portion 50 withinthe confines of the measurement area, the ‘X’ values should flow from apoint different in spatial relationship to the ‘Y’ values, but withinthe confines of the absorbent core periphery 12.

The difference in color (ΔE*) between the first shade 42 and the secondshade 44 should be at least 3.5. The difference in color between thefirst shade 42 and the non-colored portion 50 is at least 6. Thedifference in color between the second shade 44 and the non-coloredportion 50 is at least 3.5.

Preferably, the size of the non-colored portion 50 ranges from about 5%to about 100% of the viewing surface 32 of the topsheet 25. Alsopreferably, the first shade 42 of the colored portion 40 is positionedsubstantially centrally in relation to the second shade 44 of thecolored portion 40. However, so long as the shades are in proper spatialrelationship to one-another such that the depth perception phenomena iscreated, any suitable positioning of the shades is foreseeable by one ofskill in the art and are therefore acknowledged as suitable alternativeembodiments of the invention.

In one embodiment herein, the colored portion 40 may be an insertpositioned between the topsheet 25 and the absorbent core 20. In anotherembodiment, the colored portion 40 forms a part of the topsheet 25. Inyet another embodiment herein, the colored portion 40 forms a part ofthe absorbent core 20 whereby the colored portion 40 is viewable fromthe viewing surface 32 of the topsheet 25. Alternatively, the coloredportion 40 may be a multi-layered insert positioned beneath the topsheet28.

Any topsheet material that allows the colored portion to be readily seenfrom the viewing surface 32 of the topsheet 25 is suitable. For example,formed film material, nonwovens, or combinations thereof are suitable.

In an alternative embodiment herein, the absorbent article 10 provides acolored portion 40 wherein the viewing surface 32 of the topsheet 25 issubstantially without a non-colored portion 50. By the term‘substantially without a non-colored portion’ it is meant herein thatcolor white is less than or equal to 5% of the total surface area of theviewing surface 32. Also alternatively is an embodiment in which a colordifferent from the color of the first shade 42 and the second shade 44operates as a boundary between the two shades. In other words, thisboundary (not shown) rings the outer perimeter of the second shade 44and separates the second shade 44 from the first shade 42.

Referring to FIG. 5, the first shade 42 of the colored portion 40 mayencompass a graphic 28. The second shade 44 of the colored portion 40may encompass a graphic 29. The first shade 42 and/or the second shade44 can encompass one type of graphic 28, 29 or a combination of graphics28, 29.

The graphics 28, 29 can be any color, shape, or size. The color of thefirst graphic 28 located within the first shade 42 and the graphic 29located within the second shade 44 may be substantially similar or thesame. The colors are substantially similar if the colors closelyresemble each other or if one color has the possibility of beingmistaken for the other. A color is the “same” if the color correspondsso closely that is it indistinguishable. For example, however, the colorof the first graphic 28 located within the first shade 42 may bedifferent in lightness, darkness, and/or color from the second graphic29 located within the second shade 44.

The color of each of the graphics 28 within the first shade 42 may besubstantially similar or the same color. Likewise, the color of each ofthe graphics 29 within the second shade 44 may be substantially similaror the same color. In one embodiment, all of the graphics 28 locatedwithin the first shade are blue. However, the color of each graphic 28within the first shade 42 may be different in lightness, darkness,and/or color. Moreover, the color of each graphic 29 within the secondshade 44 may be different in lightness, darkness, and/or color. In oneembodiment, the graphics 29 within the second shade 44 are a differentcolor. Specifically, half of the graphics 29 are green and the otherhalf of the graphics 29 are yellow.

The graphics 28, 29 can be color coordinated with each other and theycan be color coordinated with the first shade 42 and/or the second shade44. When the graphic 28 which is located within the first shade 42 has acolor, the color can be color coordinated with the color of the firstshade 42. Likewise, when the graphic 29 which is located within thesecond shade 44 has a color, the color can be color coordinated with thecolor of the second shade 44. In addition, the graphic 28 which islocated within the first shade 42 can be color coordinated with thesecond shade 44. Likewise, the graphic 29 which is located within thesecond shade 44 can color coordinated with the color of the first shade42.

By color coordinated, is meant the color of at least a portion of thegraphic 28, 29 and at least a portion of the first shade 42 and/or thesecond shade 44 may be complimentary, analogous, warm/cool colors,monochromatic, and/or neutral. Referring to FIG. 6, by complimentarycolors, is meant those colors which are directly opposite one other inthe color spectrum or wheel 33. For example, blue 41 is the opposite oforange 43. Because blue 41 is the opposite of orange 43, gold, rust, andbrown compliment shades of blue 41. By analogous colors, is meant thosecolors which are next to each other on the color wheel. For example,blue 41 could be color coordinated with green 39. By warm and coolcolors, is meant families of analogous colors. Warm colors are colorssuch as red 40, orange 43, and yellow 45. Cool colors are colors such asgreen 39, blue 41, and violet 46. Warm and cool colors may be mixedtogether. For example, graphic 28 which has two warm colors located ongraphic 28 may be selected to match with one cool color on the graphic29. In another example, graphic 28 which is located within the firstshade 42 has two cool colors which may be color coordinated with agraphic 29 located within the second shade 44 having a warm color. Bymonochromatic, is meant all one color, but different shades, tones, ortints. By neutral, is meant shades of white, black, gray, or beige.

Referring again to FIG. 5, the graphic 28 within the first shade 42 andthe graphic 29 within the second shade 44 of the colored portion 40 andthe non-colored portion 50 are measured by the reflectancespectrophotometer according to the colors' L*, a*, and b* values. TheL*, a*, and b* values are measured from the viewing surface 32 of thetopsheet 25 inboard of the absorbent article's periphery 12. The colordifferences between the graphic 28 within the first shade 42 and thegraphic 29 within the second shade 44 are measured at a first point 30and a second point 31 on the viewing surface 32 of the topsheet 25inboard of the periphery 12 of the absorbent article 10. Preferably,each one of the points 30 and 31 resides fully within the periphery 12of the absorbent core 20. For example, the first point 30 is measuredwithin the first graphic 28 which is located within the first shade 42and the second point 31 is measured within the second graphic 29 whichis located within the second shade 44.

The color differences are calculated using the L*, a*, and b* values bythe formulaΔE=[(L*_(X·)−L*_(Y))₂+(a*_(X·)−a*_(Y))²+(b*_(X)−b*_(Y))²]^(1/2). Herein,the ‘X’ in the equation may represent points 30 or 31. Y may representpoints 30 or 31. X and Y should never be the same two points ofmeasurement at the same time. In other words, X≠Y. Where greater thantwo shades of a color(s) are used, the ‘X’ and ‘Y’ values alternatelyinclude points of measurement in them also. The key to the ΔEcalculation herein is that the ‘X’ and ‘Y’ values should not stem fromthe same measured point on the viewing surface. In those instances wherethere is effectively no non-colored portion 50 within the confines ofthe measurement area, the ‘X’ values should flow from a point differentin spatial relationship to the ‘Y’ values, but within the confines ofthe absorbent core periphery 12.

The difference in color (ΔE*) between the first graphic 28 which islocated within the first shade 42 and the second graphic 29 which islocated within the second shade 44 should be at least 3.5. Thedifference in color between the first graphic 28 within the first shade42 and the non-colored portion 50 is at least 6. The difference in colorbetween the second graphic 29 within the second shade 44 and thenon-colored portion 50 is at least 3.5.

The graphics 28, 29 can be any shape such as rectangular, square,elliptical, polygonal, triangular, etc. Other examples of possibleshapes are flowers, circles, trapezoids, cones, alphabet letters, andmixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the graphic 28 which is locatedwithin the first shade 42 is shaped like a flower. Not only can graphic28 and graphic 29 be different, the graphic 28 and graphic 29 can be thesame or substantially the same.

The graphic 28 within the first shade 42 may be formed to haveessentially identical size as compared to the graphics 29 which arelocated within the second shade 44. Alternatively, graphics 29 withinthe second shade 44 may be formed to have various sizes as compared tographics 28 located within the first shade 42.

Each graphic 28 within the first shade 42 may be formed to haveessentially identical size as compared to other graphics 28 within thefirst shade 42. Likewise, each graphic 29 located within the secondshade 44 may be formed to have essentially identical size as compared toother graphics 29 within the second shade 44. Alternatively, graphics 28within the first shade 42 may be formed to have various sizes ascompared to other graphics 28 within the first shade 42. Likewise,alternatively, graphics 29 within the second shade 44 may be formed tohave various sizes as compared to other graphics 29 within the secondshade 44.

The graphics 28, 29 within the first shade 42 and/or the second shade 44may be arranged randomly or in a pattern. For example, the graphics 28,29 can be arranged to form any three-dimensional geometric pattern knownincluding but not limited to flowers, ovals, circles, rectangles,trapezoids, triangles, cones, alphabet letters, and mixtures thereof.

The graphic 28 may encompass the entire area of the first shade 42 ormay encompass part of the first shade 42. Likewise, the graphic 29 mayencompass the entire second shade 44 or may encompass part of the secondshade 44. For example, graphic 28 which is located within the firstshade 42 may encompass 50% of the first shade 42 and graphic 29 which islocated within the second shade 44 may encompass 90% of the second shade44.

C. Analytical Methodology-Hunter Color

Referring to FIG. 7, the color scale values, utilized herein to definethe darkness/lightness of the materials of the absorbent articlesaccording to the present invention, is the widely accepted CIE LABscale. Measurements are made with a Hunter Color reflectance meter. Acomplete technical description of the system can be found in an articleby R. S. Hunter, ‘photoelectric color difference Meter’, Journal of theOptical Society of America, Vol. 48, pp. 985-95, 1958. Devices speciallydesigned for the measurement of color on the Hunter scales are describedin U.S. Pat. No. 3,003,388 to Hunter et al., issued Oct. 10, 1961. Ingeneral, Hunter Color “L” scale values are units of light reflectancemeasurement, and the higher the value is, the lighter the color is sincea lighter colored material reflects more light. In particular, in theHunter Color system the “L” scale contains 100 equal units of division.Absolute black is at the bottom of the scale (L=0) and absolute white isat the top of the scale (L=100). Thus, in measuring Hunter Color valuesof the materials used in the absorbent articles according to the presentinvention, the lower the “L” scale value, the darker the material. Theabsorbent articles herein, and hence the materials of which theabsorbent articles are made of, might be of any color provided that theL Hunter value defined herein is met.

Colors can be measured according to an internationally recognized 3Dsolid diagram of colors where all colors that are perceived by the humaneye are converted into a numerical code. The CIE LAB system is similarto Hunter L, a, b an is based on three dimensions, specifically L*, a*,and b*.

When a color is defined according to this system L* represents lightness(0=black, 100=white), a* and b* independently each represent a two coloraxis, a* representing the axis red/green (+a=red, −a=green), while b*represents the axis yellow/blue (+b=yellow, −b=blue). FIG. 7 shows theproper representation of the L, a, and b axes.

A color may be identified by a unique ΔE value (i.e., different in colorfrom some standard or reference), which is mathematically expressed bythe equation:ΔE*=[(L* _(X·) −L* _(Y))²+(a* _(X·) −a* _(Y))²+(b* _(X) −b*_(Y))²]^(1/2)‘X’ represents the standard or reference sample which may either be a‘white’ sample or a ‘colored’ sample, e.g., one colored shade may becompared to another colored shade.

It is to be understood that the tristimulus color values and ΔE*considered herein are those measured on the materials of interest (e.g.,the colored and non-colored portions on the viewing surface of thetopsheet disclosed herein).

The Hunter color meter quantitatively determines the amount (percent) ofincident light reflected from a sample onto a detector. The instrumentis also capable of analyzing the spectral content of the reflected light(e.g., how much green is in the samples). The Hunter color meter isconfigured to yield 3 values (L*, a*, b* and ΔE* which is total color).The L* value is simple the percent of the incident (source) light thatis reflected off a target sample and onto the detector. A shiny whitesample will yield an L* value near 100 while a dull black sample willyield an L* value of about 0. The a* and b* value contains spectralinformation for the sample. Positive a* value indicates the amount ofgreen in the sample.

Testing is conducted using a Lab Scan XE 45/0 geometry instrument tomeasure the different shaded options for the visual signal zone. TheHunter Color in CIE lab scale 2° C. was measured on each pad in 3portions. A 0.7 inch diameter port was used having a 0.50 inch areaview, which was the largest size able to measure each zone discretely;i.e., this 0.5 inch area view is important for the purposes thesemeasurements and should not be made smaller than the 0.5 inch area viewprescribed. The instrument was calibrated using standard white and blacktiles supplied by the instrument manufacturer.

A. Color Zone Measurement for Pad Topsheet Appearance

For measuring the L*, a*, and b* values for the invention herein, astandard, industry-recognized procedure is used. The topsheet color ismeasured using a reflectance spectrophotometer in accordance with methodASTM E 1164-94, “Standard Practice for Obtaining Spectrophotometric Datafor Object-Color Evaluation”. This standard method is followed butspecific instrument settings and sampling procedure are given here forclarity. Sample color is reported in terms of the CIE 1976 colorcoordinate standard as specified in ASTM E 1164-94 and ASTM D2264-93,section 6.2. This consists of three values; L* which measures sample“lightness”, a* which measures redness or greenness, and b* whichmeasures yellowness or blueness. Apparatus Reflectance 45°/0° HunterLabscan XE, or equivalent Spectrophotometer HunterLab Headquarters,11491 Sunset Hills Road, Reston VA 20190-5280 Tel: 703-471-6870 Fax:703-471-4237 http://www.hunterlab.com. Standard plate Standard HunterWhite Tile Source: Hunter Color. Equipment Preparation 1. Assure thatthe Spectrophotometer is configured as follows: Illumination Type CStandard Observer 2° Geometry 45/0° Measurement angle Port Diameter 0.70inch Viewing area 0.50 inch (and no smaller) UV Filter: Nominal

-   2. Calibrate the spectrophotometer using standard black and white    tiles supplied with the instrument according to manufacturer's    instructions before beginning any testing.    Sample Preparation    -   1. Unwrap, unfolded and lay the product or pad samples flat        without touching or altering the color of the body facing        surface.    -   2. Areas on the body-facing surface of the product should be        selected for measurement and must include the following:        -   The non-colored portion of the topsheet.        -   The colored portion of the topsheet; including the two or            more shaded portions.        -   Any other portions of the topsheet above the absorbent core            having a visibly or measurably different color from the            first shaded zone. Embossed channels and folds should not be            included in zones of measurement as they may skew the proper            results. Measurements should not be made overlapping the            border of two shaded portions.            Test Procedure-   1. Operate the Hunter Colorimeter according to the instrument    manufacturer's instructions.-   2. Pads should be measured laying flat over the 0.70 inch aperture    on the instrument. A white tile should be placed behind the pad.-   3. The pad should be placed with its long direction perpendicular to    the instrument.-   4. Measure the same zones selected above for at least 3 replicate    samples.    Calculation Reporting-   1. Ensure that the reported results are really CIE L*,a*,b*.-   2. Record the L*,a*,b* values to the nearest 0.1 units.-   3. Take the average L*, a*, b* for each zone measured.-   4. Calculate ΔE* between different shaded portions and ΔE* between    each shaded portion and the non-colored portion where the    non-colored portion exists.    Human Sensitivity to Light

The human sensitivity threshold for the lightness of a dark green coloris a ΔE* of about 1.0. For a dark green color, if only the a* and b*change, human sensitivity is a ΔE* of 2.4. In the context of anabsorbent article herein (e.g., a sanitary napkin) it is highly likelythat many people would not see a color difference if the ΔE* is lessthan 2. This sensitivity is described in the following reference: “TheMeasurement of Appearance”, by Hunter and Harold, 2nd edition, 1987, SBN0-471-83006-2).

Chapter 4 of Hunter's book describes human color sensing and chapter 9is about color scales. By making side-by side comparison, humans candifferentiate up to 5 to 10 million different colors. In the 1940s, aresearcher named MacAdam did human chromaticity discriminationexperiments. He found the thresholds of sensitivity and showed thesedepend on the color. Later work by Brown and MacAdam came up with alogarithmic lightness dimension scale for human sensitivity to go withthe earlier color scale. Based on the reduction to practice of theinvention, experimentation and the foregoing work by Brown and MacAdam,it has been found herein that a ΔE≧3.5 is the preferred range to effectproper differentiation between the shades that provides the properappearance of depth. However, where the ΔE is as small as about 1 andstill operates to provide a perception of depth between the shades, thisΔE is also contemplated and included herein. An example where ΔE may bebetween at last two shades of one or more colors may be found in analternative embodiment that provides a multi-color and/or shade gradientof a color across the viewing surface of the absorbent article.

B. Results CHART I Sample Topsheet Number Type Colored Options ΔE*₂₃ΔE*₁₂ ΔE*₁₃ 1 Formed Film Two-tone inner/ 6.10 10.83 16.86 outer color 2Formed Film One-tone color 0.25 8.60 8.80 3 Non-woven One-tone color0.22 10.63 10.81 4 Non-woven Two-tone inner/ 5.98 11.03 16.92 outercolor 5 Formed Film Two-tone light 10.01 2.88 12.80 outer color/innerdark color 6 Formed Film Two-tone 7.51 6.37 13.61 medium outercolor/inner dark color 7 Formed Film Two-tone darker 5.60 19.16 14.22outer color/inner dark color 8 Formed Film Two-tone 4.58 6.00 8.06(secondary topsheet colored outer color)/(core colored dark color) 9Formed Film One-tone outer 0.21 8.90 8.84 color

As has been noted previously, the difference in color between the firstshade and the second shade should be at least 3.5. Likewise, thedifference in color between the first graphic and the second graphic canalso be at least 3.5. The difference in color between the first shadeand the non-colored portion is at least 6. Likewise, the difference incolor between the first graphic and the non-colored portion is at least6. The difference in color between the second shade and the non-coloredportion is at least 3.5. Likewise, the difference in color between thesecond graphic and the non-colored portion is at least 3.5. Throughexperimentation and reduction to practice of the invention, it has beendetermined that the preferred creation of depth perception happens atabout and above these set parameters. For products substantially nothaving a non-colored portion within the measurement zone (i.e., agradient or fully colored product), the above criteria for the shadedportions (i.e., ΔE*≧3.5) remains the preferred standard.

Chart I above clearly shows the ΔE*s obtained between multi-tone (e.g.,two tone) and single tone signals. Formed films and nonwovens useful forthe invention herein are those which will allow the sufficientpenetration of light therethrough such that the shaded portions may beclearly discerned and such that such discernment produces the depthperception effect. The color may be any suitable color fitting withinthe parameters herein for ΔE* between colored portions and non-coloredportion (where it exists). For example, the colors green, blue, red,yellow, orange, purple and any other color within the color spectrum aresuitable for the purposes described herein.

Sample Nos. 1 and 2 are clearly distinct in their ΔE*23. Specifically,the ΔE*₂₃ (which is 6.10) is greater than 3.5. This ΔE₂₃ indicates thatthere is a perceptible difference in color or lightness/darkness betweenthe two points of measurement; i.e., between the second shaded portionand the non-colored (or white) portion (see FIG. 2 and FIG. 3). As notedabove for human perception, Sample No. 2's ΔE*23 of 0.25 would not beperceptible to the human eye. This indicates that the signal is only aone or single tone signal (i.e., color portion).

All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are,are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation ofany document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior artwith respect to the present invention.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

1. An absorbent article having an upper surface, a lower surface and aperiphery, comprising: a topsheet having a bottom surface and a viewingsurface positioned opposite to the bottom surface, the viewing surfacefacing upwardly towards the upper surface of the absorbent article; abacksheet having a garment facing surface and a user facing surfacepositioned oppositely to the garment facing surface, the backsheet beingjoined to the topsheet; an absorbent core having a top surface and abottom surface positioned opposite to the top surface, the absorbentcore being positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet; and theabsorbent core printed thereon a colored portion, the colored portionviewable from the viewing surface of the topsheet, the colored portionhaving a first shade and a second shade, wherein said first shadecomprises a first graphic, the first shade being positionedsubstantially within the second shade, the second shade being differentfrom the first shade, the shades operating to create a perception ofdepth within the absorbent article by a user looking upon the viewingsurface of the topsheet.
 2. The absorbent article of claim 1 whereinsaid second shade comprises a second graphic.
 3. The absorbent articleof claim 1 wherein said first shade comprises a first graphic and saidsecond shade comprises a second graphic.
 4. The absorbent article ofclaim 3 wherein said first graphic comprises a different shape than saidsecond graphic.
 5. The absorbent article of claim 3 wherein said firstgraphic has a first color and a second graphic has a second color. 6.The absorbent article of claim 3 wherein the color of the first graphic,the second graphic, the color of the first shade, the color of thesecond shade of the colored portion, and the non-colored portion aremeasured by the Hunter Reflectance Meter test according to the colors'L, a, and b values, the L, a, and b values being measured from theviewing surface of the topsheet inboard of the absorbent article'speriphery.
 7. The absorbent article of claim 6 wherein the colordifferences between the first graphic, the second graphic, and thenon-colored portion are measured at a first point, a second point, and athird point on the viewing surface of the topsheet inboard of theperiphery of the absorbent article, the first point being measuredwithin the first graphic, the second point being measured within thesecond graphic, and the third point being measured within thenon-colored portion of the absorbent article, the color differencesbeing calculated using the L, a, and b values by the formulaΔE=[(L*_(X·)−L*_(Y))²+(a*_(X·)−a*_(Y))²+(b*_(X)−b*_(Y))²]^(1/2)
 8. Theabsorbent article of claim 7 wherein the difference in color between thefirst graphic and the second graphic is at least 3.5.
 9. The absorbentarticle of claim 7 wherein the difference in color between the firstgraphic and the non-colored portion is at least
 6. 10. The absorbentarticle of claim 7 wherein the difference in color between the secondshade and the non-colored portion is at least 3.5.
 11. The absorbentarticle of claim 1 wherein the size of the colored portion ranges fromabout 5% to about 98% of the viewing surface of the topsheet.
 12. Theabsorbent article of claim 1 wherein the colored portion is an insertpositioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core.
 13. Theabsorbent article of claim 1 wherein the colored portion forms a part ofthe topsheet.
 14. The absorbent article of claim 1 wherein the coloredportion forms a part of the absorbent core whereby the colored portionis viewable from the viewing surface of the topsheet.
 15. The absorbentarticle of claim 1 wherein the colored portion is a multi-layered insertpositioned beneath the topsheet.
 16. The absorbent article of claim 1wherein the colored insert comprises at least a first layer and a secondlayer wherein the first layer comprises one shade of the color andwherein the second layer comprises another shade of the color.
 17. Anabsorbent article having an upper surface, a lower surface and aperiphery, comprising: a topsheet having a bottom surface and a viewingsurface positioned opposite to the bottom surface, the viewing surfacefacing upwardly towards the upper surface of the absorbent article; abacksheet having a garment facing surface and a user facing surfacepositioned oppositely to the garment facing surface, the backsheet beingjoined to the topsheet; an absorbent core having a top surface and abottom surface positioned opposite to the top surface, the absorbentcore being positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet; and theabsorbent core printed thereon a colored portion, the colored portionviewable from the viewing surface of the topsheet, the colored portionhaving a first shade and a second shade, the first shade beingpositioned substantially within the second shade, wherein the firstshade of the color is darker than the second shade of the color, saidfirst shade comprises a first graphic, the shades operating to create aperception of depth within the absorbent article by a user looking uponthe viewing surface of the topsheet.
 18. The absorbent article of claim17 wherein the first graphic comprises a color.
 19. The absorbentarticle of claim 18 wherein said first graphic is a flower.
 20. Anabsorbent article having an upper surface, a lower surface and aperiphery, comprising: a topsheet having a bottom surface and a viewingsurface positioned opposite to the bottom surface, the viewing surfacefacing upwardly towards the upper surface of the absorbent article; abacksheet having a garment facing surface and a user facing surfacepositioned oppositely to the garment facing surface, the backsheet beingjoined to the topsheet; an absorbent core having a top surface and abottom surface positioned opposite to the top surface, the absorbentcore being positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet; and theabsorbent core printed thereon a colored portion, the colored portionviewable from the viewing surface of the topsheet, the colored portionhaving a first shade and a second shade, the first shade beingpositioned substantially within the second shade, the second shade beingdarker than the first shade, said first shade comprises a first graphic,the shades operating to create a perception of depth within theabsorbent article by a user looking upon the viewing surface of thetopsheet.